A Different Kind of Easter Celebration

This past weekend nine of our Gamecock sailors participated in the 50th Annual Easter Regatta hosted by Columbia Sailing Club, where J24, J70, and U20 sailors arrived to compete in the three day event. The team fielded Gamecock sailors in both the U20 and J24 fleets, with two boats registered and sailed entirely by Gamecock Sailing. Met with breezy conditions Friday with wind steadily shifting S-SW, all fleets saw three completed races on a traditional windward-leeward course with both offset and gates (W4). Runs were close within all fleets, making for some very exciting, down to the wire finishes. Post racing sailors were fortunate enough to have North Sails’ Tim Healy, among others, to debrief the fleets. The importance of sail controls and the best settings for the day’s conditions were discussed at length, as well as the new J24 class rule changes. Saturday brought postponements and light, shifty conditions with wind out of the N/NE. After several general recalls while under I flag, the J24 fleet sailed all races under the black flag. Race Committee was able to complete two races in all fleets, sailing a W4 and W5 course for the day. Again sailors were able to debrief with Tim and company, with emphasis on pressure and maintaining boat speed before pointing. This concluded racing for the weekend as no races were sailed Sunday due to lack of wind and heavy fog. Gamecock Sailing’s Running With Scissors (courtesy of Steve Rose) placed 2nd in the U20 fleet for the weekend. Gamecock sailors were also aboard the top local boat, receiving recognition as traditional for the Easter Regatta. Big thanks to all who came out to compete and volunteer!